BNS Section 296 - Making or Possessing Instruments for Counterfeiting
Whoever makes or mends, or performs any part of the process of making or mending, or buys, sells or disposes of, any die or instrument, for the purpose of being used, or knowing or having reason to believe that it is intended to be used, for the purpose of counterfeiting any currency note or bank note or coin.
Official Text
“Whoever makes or mends, or performs any part of the process of making or mending, or buys, sells or disposes of, any die or instrument, for the purpose of being used, or knowing or having reason to believe that it is intended to be used, for the purpose of counterfeiting any currency note or bank note or coin.”
Legal Analysis
Elements to Prove:
- Making or mending instruments.
- For purpose of counterfeiting.
- Currency, bank notes, or coins.
Potential Defenses:
- No instrument making.
- Legitimate purpose.
- No intent to counterfeit.
Practical Examples
What Constitutes the Offense:
Creating printing plates for fake money, making dies for counterfeit coins, producing tools for currency forgery.
What Doesn't Constitute:
Legitimate instrument making, authorized reproductions, or acting in good faith.
Punishment
Imprisonment up to 7 years, and Fine